A paedophile has been jailed for 19 months after sexually abusing a 14-year-old girl.

Daniel Bateman, 33, was sentenced at Cardiff Crown Court on Monday, August 3, and was charged with two counts of sexual assault.

The incidents happened in April 2019.

Bateman, of Coed Pwll, Porset Park, Caerphilly town, was also given a sexual harm prevention order for ten years, as well as a restraining order for ten years.

He was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £140 within six months of release.

Detective inspector Jamie Cooper, of Gwent Police, said: “I would like to commend the bravery of the victim who came forward to report Bateman to police. It is because of her courage to speak out that Bateman is now behind bars.

“I hope that this sentence imposed will help her and her family to move on and bring closure to this awful chapter in their lives.

“I hope that this result sends a message to anyone else who has suffered, or is currently suffering abuse, that they can come forward and any allegations will be taken seriously.”

DI Cooper added: “I cannot imagine how difficult it must be to come forward to report such appalling crimes but I want to reassure anyone considering doing so that there is a whole range of support out there, not only from the police but from partner agencies who can help you through the entire process.

“Gwent Police will continue to work tirelessly to protect children and bring perpetrators of child abuse to justice.”

Sexual abuse can be reported by calling the police on 101, or by contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.